West Ham appear set to break the EFL Championship signing fee record as Arne Engels gets close to a £22m move to east London.

The Celtic midfielder is currently undergoing a medical, which could well see him sign in time to make the squad for the Championship opener against Burnley on Sunday.

For most Hammers fans, this signing is mixed with excitement and relief, with Engels being a target all summer and with little evidence to date that the club had what it takes to splash the cash.

However, the deal reached with Celtic will break all existing records in the English 2nd tier of football, with Engels the latest reason why rivals feel the Hammers will win the league this season.

The West Ham Way Podcast host Dave Walker however is less than convinced, as he feels the money spent could have been utilised elsewhere.

“If I’m honest, I’m a bit skeptical about this transfer based on the fee and what I have heard about the player from those that have watched him,” stated Walker.

“Do we desperately need a player in this position? Will the fee paid allow for less to be spent on key areas? Time will tell….”